Skip to content
quotesby

About this quote

What does it mean?
Two strangers recognize each other after many years and miles. The smile is sad because time has changed them but memories remain.
In plain terms
Strangers meet again after years and recognize each other with a sad smile.
What can you take from it?
Time changes us but memories stay.

Where it applies

  • running into old friends
  • traveling

Putting it to work

  • keep old memories
  • say hello to the past

Questions to consider

  • What memory do you carry from a stranger?
  • Who do you remember unexpectedly?

Another view

Not every encounter leads to sadness; some bring joy.

More from Harry Chapin

  1. Now sometimes words can serve me well Sometimes words can go to hell For all that they do. And for every dream that took me high There's been a dream that's pa…

    Permalink to quote #65
  2. There was not much more for us to talk about, Whatever we had once was gone. So I turned my cab into the driveway, Past the gate and the fine trimmed lawns. An…

    Permalink to quote #67
  3. And all the trips you know you missed And all the lips you never kissed Cut through you like a knife. And now you see stretched out before thee Just another st…

    Permalink to quote #64

Related quotes

  1. Yesterday, all my troubles seemed so far away Now it looks as though they're here to stay. Oh, I believe in yesterday.

    Paul McCartneyPaul McCartney quote #1
  2. Sweet April-time - O cruel April-time! Year after year returning, with a brow Of promise, and red lips with longing paled, And backward-hidden hands that clutc…

    Dinah Maria MulockDinah Maria Mulock quote #1
  3. Looking back on things, the view always improves.

    Walt KellyWalt Kelly quote #1